Some things aren't automatically bad, but they deserve a closer look. For example, a site that only verifies age at checkout but not on delivery might still be compliant if they use an age-check service at the door. That's fine, but ask about it before you buy.

Another yellow flag: a seller based outside Ohio. They might follow their own state's rules, which could be different. Check their policy—if they don't mention Ohio compliance, that's a caution.

Even a well-known brand can slip up. If a store you've used before suddenly stops asking for age verification, it might be a temporary glitch—or a sign of a bigger problem. Reach out to their support to confirm.